AMERICAN MISTLETOE Overview Information
American mistletoe is a plant. The flower, fruit, leaf, and stem are used as medicine.
American mistletoe is used as a smooth muscle stimulant to increase blood pressure, and to increase muscle contractions in the uterus and intestine. It is also used to cause abortions.
How does it work?
Chemicals in American mistletoe affect muscles.
AMERICAN MISTLETOE Side Effects & Safety
American mistletoe is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth. All American mistletoe plant parts have historically been considered poisonous. However, some reports suggest that eating up to 20 berries or 5 leaves might not cause serious adverse effects. However, American mistletoe can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased heart rate, hallucinations, and heart problems in some people. Also, one of the chemicals in American mistletoe seems to be similar to poisons in cobra venom. This chemical can cause “cardiac arrest,” a condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating.
Special Precautions & Warnings:Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is LIKELY UNSAFE to use American mistletoe during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Don’t use it.
Heart disease: American mistletoe might make heart disease worse. Don’t use it.
AMERICAN MISTLETOE Dosing
The appropriate dose of American mistletoe depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for American mistletoe. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.